The Notorious Benedict Arnold Book Report

Benedict Arnold is one of the most infamous names of the American Revolution, and of the entire history of America. He is most notably remembered for being a traitor to the patriot cause in 1779, but author Steve Sheinkin does not only focus on the negative. He almost makes the reader forget that Arnold became a traitor for his own gain many years ago. This telling of a classic American villain is a reminder to readers of all ages that there are two sides to every story, and some truths to each side. The novel begins with a man being led to his death. Later, readers learn that this is John Andre, not Arnold. Not much context is given, but anyone with a general knowledge of the American Revolution knows what’s next for him. Then, Sheinkin brings the reader back several decades to recount Benedict Arnold’s earliest years. He was a typical eighteenth century boy; he loved pranks and causing lighthearted trouble. When he became too much for his parents to handle, he was sent to a prestigious boarding school. His life was far from perfect, though. Nearly all of his loved ones died when he was very young, many from disease. His father was a heavy drinker and made the Arnold family name an embarrassment.

These things forced the boy to grow up quickly, but his ego did not mature at the same pace. He often picked fights, and challenged many men to duels. He married twice, his second wife being one of the highest-paid spies of the American Revolution. The two had many children together. Throughout the course of the novel, it is evident that Arnold is becoming increasingly unhappy with the lack of recognition and appreciation he is receiving. For the first half of the story, readers see the heroic side of him; he was determined to lead his men to victory, no matter the cost. Along with Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys, he was able to defeat the Redcoats at Ticonderoga. Still, he often would show signs of emotional immaturity; fits of rage over trivial things and egotistical behavior, to name a few. The deterioration of his Arnold’s stability is fascinating to witness while reading. His plan to go down in history by betraying the colonies was his final cry for attention. Before long, his life became very complex, filled with lies and manipulation. Steve Sheinkin is the author of several other historical novels for young readers.

The Notorious Benedict Arnold is filled with facts, quotes, and primary source recounts from the Revolution, but is presented as a thrilling story about triumph, treason, and tragedy. Young and older readers alike can appreciate Sheinkin’s careful research and descriptive language, two things that make Benedict Arnold such an enjoyable read. Every quote, journal entry, primary source, and secondary source can be found conveniently in the back of the novel for both further research and citation purposes. While interesting to read another take on Arnold’s life, it was difficult to read more than a few short chapters at a time. This may be because of the juvenile writing style that Sheinkin uses to appeal to a younger audience.